Why Watford must replace Sanchez Flores with Hughton and not Clement

Watford have become the third Premier League club to sack their manager this season, following North London outfits Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal.

While Spurs parted ways with Mauricio Pochettino after five long years, the Gunners bid adieu to Unai Emery. And recently, the Hornets sacked Quique Sanchez Flores after a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Southampton. Despite securing a lead, Watford blew it off and that loss turned out to be the final nail in the coffin for the 54-year-old.

The Spaniard arrived at the club as a replacement for Javi Gracia but unfortunately, he failed to work wonders. In fact, Watford are in a dangerous spot at the bottom of the table and with the threat of relegation looming large, their decision does not come as a surprise.

However, sacking the manager is hardly the tip of the iceberg; the real concern is to find a viable replacement.

A report from Sky Sports has claimed that Chris Hughton and Paul Clement are in the running to replace Sanchez Flores. Let’s take a look at both managers and analyze as to who would be a better option in this situation.

Paul Clement

Clement’s last managerial stint did not end too well, with Reading sacking him around this time last year. His lack of impact and inability to churn out results led to the exit and he has been out of a job since then.

However, as far as experience is concerned, Clement certainly does not lack any. He has managed Swansea City in the past and played a decisive role in retaining their top-flight status before being sacked in December 2017.

Chris Hughton

Hughton, on the other hand, enjoyed a somewhat successful time at Brighton & Hove Albion. Having been sacked at the end of last season, the 60-year-old is yet to find a new job. That said, he is experienced when it comes to steadying the sails of a faltering club.

Not only did he get Brighton promoted to the Premier League but he also did the same for Newcastle United. During his tenure with the Seagulls, Hughton moulded them into a well-developed team as well but eventually, he was replaced by Graham Potter.

Verdict

Given the two options at hand, Hughton certainly seems like the better choice to become Watford’s next manager. The fact that he has won promotion with two teams makes him a great choice to be the one to attempt saving the Hornets from sinking completely.